Nico Estevez, the coach of the MLS All-Star team, has expressed uncertainty about whether Lionel Messi will play in the upcoming All-Star game scheduled for July 23rd. Despite being named to the roster after joining Inter Miami in July 2023, Messi was notably absent from the All-Star team’s training session ahead of the match.
Estevez, who leads Austin FC, addressed the situation during a press conference and acknowledged his excitement about potentially coaching Messi. However, he admitted he does not have control over Messi’s availability and emphasized that such decisions rest with the player’s club.
“That’s a question for his club. I just coach and use the players I’m given. I hope so – I’m very optimistic and I hope he can be there.”
—Nico Estevez, MLS All-Star Coach
Messi’s absence from training raises questions, especially since he has not yet appeared in an MLS All-Star game, missing out last year due to injury. His workload leading up to the event has been demanding, which led Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano to recently consider resting the star forward. Messi, alongside his teammate Jordi Alba, both missed the team’s initial practice, leaving fans and officials unsure of their roles in the All-Star festivities.
MLS Rules and Scheduling Add Pressure on Messi’s Availability
The MLS enforces strict rules for players selected for the All-Star roster. Those who withdraw without reporting physical issues that prevent participation face a one-game suspension. This rule adds to the stakes for Messi and Inter Miami, who have a crucial league match against Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati shortly after the All-Star weekend. The team is eager to have their captain fit and ready, as his influence on the pitch remains vital.
Messi’s inclusion on the All-Star roster this year has generated significant attention. However, he was not listed among participants for the Friday Skills Challenge event. This omission fuels doubts about his full involvement in the upcoming matches, leaving the soccer community to watch closely for any updates.
Rodrigo De Paul Nears Move to Inter Miami, Potentially Joining Messi
Meanwhile, there is growing buzz that Messi’s Argentine teammate, midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, is close to joining Inter Miami. The 31-year-old player has reportedly been excluded from Atletico Madrid’s pre-season squad as he finalizes a transfer to the MLS club this summer.
According to reports, the Atletico Madrid squad traveled to Los Angeles de San Rafael for pre-season preparations without De Paul, who was permitted to remain behind during negotiations. Inter Miami is expected to pay around €15 million for De Paul, who will join on a contract extending until 2029. The deal includes an initial six-month loan period lasting until January 2026.
De Paul’s contract with Atletico Madrid is in its final year, which contributed to the decision to approve his departure for a relatively modest fee. His arrival would bolster Inter Miami’s squad and add depth alongside Messi and Alba as the club aims for strong results domestically and in marquee events like the All-Star game.
Implications for Inter Miami and the MLS All-Star Event
The uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s participation highlights the challenges top clubs face in balancing star player rest and high-profile exhibition matches. Inter Miami’s hopes of showcasing Messi in the All-Star game are mixed with concerns about his fitness and scheduling demands.
If Messi does not play, it would be a missed opportunity for fans eager to see him in an MLS All-Star jersey for the first time. Conversely, securing De Paul’s services could signal Inter Miami’s intent to build a formidable squad around their marquee players, setting the stage for future successes.
The All-Star game remains a key fixture in the MLS calendar, drawing attention from fans across North America. As July 23rd approaches, all eyes will be on Messi’s status, the lineup selections, and how the league manages commitments involving its biggest international stars.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi religious?
A. He grew up in a family that practiced Roman Catholicism. He has two tattoos reflecting his faith: Jesus with a crown of thorns on his right shoulder and a rosary on his forearm.